American reformer William Jay (1789-1858) was an abolitionist whose prestige and understanding of constitutional law gave vital support to the cause.

William Jay was born in New York City on June 11, 1789. His father was the illustrious statesman John Jay. Young Jay attended Yale College and studied law but gave up the profession because of weak eyes. He then devoted himself to philanthropic causes and to writing. His life was dominated by love of family, devout and evangelical Episcopalianism, and patriotism. In 1810 he helped organize the American Bible Society and often wrote on the duty of churchmen to support just causes.

An early adopter of abolitionist principles, in 1818 Jay was appointed a judge of Westchester County, a position he retained until 1843, when the governor conceded to proslavery pressure and refused to reappoint him. Jay saw putting limits on slavery territory as a primary target for abolitionists. In 1826 he aided...